Researchers Find Way to Ease Depression, Anxiety

TORONTO, Dec. 30 -- A recent study has revealed that a community-based mental health care therapy may hold potential in considerably improving the lives of millions of people who suffer from mental illness.
Nearly 90 per cent of people with mental disorders, who are living in the developed countries, do not have access to any treatment.
For the study, researchers recruited 573 participants from Zimbabwe, where Friendship Bench is working on a project to make mental health care within reach to the entire African nation. The researchers assigned the participants to undergo s ix weekly therapy sessions by Canada-based organisation, known as Friendship Bench.
The findings of the study revealed the participants exhibited noteworthy change in the severity of their depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts. Also, it was noted that the therapy was beneficial for the overall health of the individual.
The practitioners of the organisation, who have experts known as community Grandmothers helped the participants solve their problems. However, the technique comprised of three components - opening up the mind, uplifting the individual, and additional strengthening.
The study appeared in JAMA.